A New Chapter for the Phoenix
Elon University’s football program has settled into the middle of the pack in the Coastal Athletic Association over the past few seasons, posting back‑to‑back 6‑6 records that keep it competitive but far from the top.
Head coach Tony Trisciani, now in his eighth year at the helm, brings nearly two decades of CAA experience and a career ledger of 38‑37, having guided the Phoenix to five straight seasons with six or more victories.
The 2026 preseason poll placed Elon third behind Rhode Island and Monmouth, a positioning that reflects both the program’s recent consistency and the stiff competition within the league.
The season will open on August 27 with a matchup against Glenville State, marking the team’s only scheduled non‑Saturday contest and kicking off a 12‑game slate that blends home and road challenges.
Elon will host six games at Rhodes Stadium while traveling for another six, a balance that gives the coaching staff flexibility in managing player workload and fan engagement.
In the offseason the roster was bolstered by 21 new players and four additional coaches, including high‑profile transfers and early signing prospects, all aimed at closing the gap with the conference leaders.
The 2025 campaign ended with a 6‑6 overall record and a 4‑4 mark in CAA play, highlighted by a 55‑17 triumph over North Carolina A&T, the most points scored against a conference opponent since 2014.
Redshirt freshman quarterback Landen Clark earned CAA Co‑Offensive Rookie of the Year honors, while sophomore defensive end Kahmari Brown was named Co‑Defensive Player of the Week after the final game of the season.
Fifteen Phoenix earned All‑CAA recognition, eight of whom return for 2026, providing a core of experience that the coaching staff hopes will translate into a championship push.
Preseason All‑CAA selections include running back Jimmyll Williams, fullback Dylan Magazu, offensive lineman Tim Hogan, linebacker Brodie Carroll, safety Tony Hart III and kicker Luke Barnes, underscoring the talent pool ready to lead the charge.
Coach Trisciani’s track record of five consecutive seasons with six or more wins suggests that the program’s upward trajectory may finally culminate in its first CAA title.